Blue diesel drives Hyundai i30 even further

Extending its range of practical, eco-friendly models, Hyundai has this month started mass production of the diesel-powered i30 Blue at its European plant in the Czech Republic. Fitted with ISG Stop-Start technology and powered by Hyundai’s super efficient 1,6-liter CRDi engine, the i30 Blue is the first diesel-powered model launched under the company’s eco-friendly Blue DriveTM initiative.

The first i30 Blue diesels have been collected direct from the production line by European Journalists, who were able to test drive the model’s leading-edge technology during the journeys back to their home countries. The innovative ISG system proved an exceptional fuel-saving tool in busy urban traffic, switching off the engine when the car comes to a standstill and instantly restarting when the driver engages the clutch.

First seen on the petrol-powered 1,4- and 1,6-liter i30 Blue earlier this year, the ISG system has a significant impact on the car’s fuel efficiency and CO2 rating, without compromising performance. The i30 Blue’s 1,6-liter diesel engine comes with two power outputs: 90PS and 115PS. Remarkably, the 90PS variant emits only 113g/km of CO2, a 2g/km saving over the standard engine without ISG. It also consumes just 4,3l/100km, which is an improvement of 0,1l/100km. Equally impressive is the more powerful 115PS model, which too saves 2g/km in CO2, with a rating of 117g/km.

“When we launched the petrol i30 Blue, customers responded positively and sales are going well around Europe, particularly in countries where CO2 emissions levels affect taxation. The introduction of our new diesel variant will further underline Hyundai’s eco-credentials, and offer even lower running costs for our customers. Our new state-of-the-art factory in the Czech Republic – officially opened last month – is producing cars of the highest standards, including all European i30s,” said Allan Rushforth, Vice President of Hyundai Motor Europe.

He added, “By extending the i30 range with our Blue derivatives, we anticipate it will help us reach our goal of 2,5% market share in Europe by year end. This model will particularly appeal to the growing number of consumers concerned about the impact their choices have on the environment, as well as Fleet managers who are keen to reduce their overall running costs with a vehicle that has lower CO2 ratings and better fuel consumption.”

The i30 Blue diesel and petrol models are available in both five-door hatchback and CW estate body styles and come with Hyundai’s competitive five-year warranty.

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